Churches Of South India

Churches Of South India

14 Days / 13 Night

Overview

Set off on a soul-soothing 14-day journey across South India’s most popular Christian pilgrimage sites, melding spiritual discovery, heritage tourism, and cultural immersion. From the Gothic grandeur of St. Philomena’s Church in Mysore to the holy shores of Velankanni, this itinerary takes you through ancient cities like Bangalore, Cochin, Madurai, and Chennai, revealing the region’s deep-rooted legacy of Christianity.

Explore the top churches in India, experience faith-based travel at its finest, and marvel at its architectural excellence, serene beaches, and UNESCO heritage sites along the way. This itinerary is ideal for spiritual seekers, culture lovers, and heritage enthusiasts, this divine circuit trip offers a balanced blend of sacred exploration and relaxed leisure—making it one of the most trending Christian tour packages in India for 2025.

Detailed Itineary

  • Day 1 : Arrive Bangalore

    Upon your arrival at Bangalore, one of our representatives from Indian panorama will receive you and assist you with your hotel transfer hotel and a quick hotel check-in. Sightseeing activities can be arranged as based on your arrival schedule. You can begin your sightseeing excursion by visiting St. Mary's Basilica and Infant Jesus Church, two important landmarks in the city. Other than churches, you can explore Kemp Fort - A popular temple housing a majestic 65-foot Shiva statue. Tipu Sultan’s Palace - A historic Indo-Islamic structure in Bangalore Lalbagh Botanical Garden - a historic garden with rare flora and Cubbon Park or, alternatively, begin your local sightseeing early the following day. Overnight stay at Bangalore.

  • Day 2 : Bangalore- Mysore: (Approx. 4.5hrs drive)

    After your leisurely breakfast, head to Mysore, popularly known as “The City of Palaces”. Explore the grand St. Philomena’s Church, constructed in Neo-Gothic style and one of the largest cathedrals in South Asia. Later if you wish, visit other attractions such as the magnificent Mysore Palace, the hilltop Chamundeshwari Temple overlooking the city, and the illuminated Brindavan Gardens that is popular for Musical Fountain. In the evening you can indulge in shopping as Mysore is famous for Mysore Pak sweets and Mysore silk sarees. Overnight stay at Mysore.

  • Day 3 : Mysore– Coimbatore: (Approx. 5hrs drive)

    On day 3 after your breakfast at Mysore, head to Coimbatore, (Approx. 5 hrs drive) a city popular for its spiritual sanctuaries and textile heritage. Explore the Infant Jesus Church, Our Lady of Fatima Church, and Bethesda International Prayer Centre - Located at the foothills of Siruvani. If time permits, explore local markets in the evening Overnight stay at Coimbatore.

  • Day 4 : Coimbatore- Cochin: (Approx. 4. 5hrs drive)

    On day 4 post your breakfast, head to Cochin (Approx. 4.5 hrs drive) and visit its popular churches — St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the adorned Santa Cruz Basilica. If you are very much interested in further exploration, you can make a visit to the Jewish Synagogue (closed on Fridays & Saturdays), the Dutch Palace (closed on Fridays), and witness the iconic Chinese fishing nets on the waterfront. Later in the evening, attend a Kathakali dance show - a must-experience element of cultural tourism in Kerala. Overnight at Cochin.

  • Day 5 : Cochin –Kovalam: (Approx. 5.5hrs drive)

    After your leisurely breakfast at Cochin, proceed to Kovalam, a stunning beach destination in Kerala on the Arabian Sea coast. The rest of the day is at your leisure so you can for relax or engage in a peaceful walk in the golden shore of the beach. You can also opt for rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage (on a direct payment basis) Overnight stay at Kovalam.

  • Day 6 : Kovalam – Kanyakumari: (Approx. 4hrs drive)

    On day 6 after your breakfast, drive to Kanyakumari, (Approx. 4 hrs drive) India’s southernmost tip where three seas meet. Explore St. Xavier’s Church, popular for its miraculous aura from ancient times. Also visit significant landmarks like the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Gandhi Memorial, Kumari Amman Temple, and the towering Thiruvalluvar Statue, representing Tamil heritage. Wind up your day witnessing the mesmerizing sunset over the ocean. Overnight stay at Kanyakumari.

  • Day 7 : Kanyakumari – Madurai: (Approx. 5.5hrs drive)

    On day 7 wake up early to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the confluence of three seas, then proceed to Madurai. On the way, pause a moment to visit the iconic Our Lady of Snows Basilica in Thoothukudi, the historic church at Manapad, and the serene Selva Matha Church in Uvari. Upon your arrival in Madurai, visit St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church and St. Lourdes Church at Pudur. Explore other major attractions like the regal Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace - a palace built by King Thirumalai Nayak in the year 1636 and the awe-inspiring Meenakshi Amman Temple, and marvel of Dravidian architecture. Overnight stay at Madurai.

  • Day 8 : Madurai- Idaikattur – Vadipatti – Madurai (Approx. 2hrs one way)

    On day 8 after your leisurely breakfast, get ready for a day trip to Idaikattur and visit The Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, a replica of the Reims Cathedral in France. Then proceed to Vadipatti to explor the St. Lourdes Mary Church. Return to Madurai for an overnight stay.

  • Day 9 : Madurai –Trichy - Tanjore: (Approx. 4hrs drive)

    After breakfast, proceed to Tanjore, en route visiting the Poondi Matha Basilica, a revered pilgrimage site. Continue to Trichy and visit St. Joseph's Church, followed by an optional visit to Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a sprawling temple complex in Srirangam, and the historic Rock Fort Temple, perched atop an 83m-high rock. At Tanjore, don’t miss the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple, famed for its majestic sculptures and Chola architecture. Overnight stay at Tanjore.

  • Day 10 : Tanjore – Velankanni: (Approx. 4hrs drive)

    On day 10 after your breakfast, proceed to Velankanni, one of the most visited Christian pilgrimage towns in India. Part take in prayers at the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, a symbol of faith tourism. Later in the evening, relax by the beach. Overnight stay at Velankanni.

  • Day 11 : Velankanni – Pondicherry: (Approx. 4hrs drive)

    Head to Pondicherry, the French Riviera of the East. Check in and relax before exploring the city's French-era churches. Visit the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, an architectural gem in Gothic style known for its vibrant stained-glass windows depicting Christ’s life. Later, if you wish, explore Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Aurobindo Ashram, and Auroville Meditation Centre, which promote spiritual wellness. Overnight stay at Pondicherry.

  • Day 12 : Pondicherry –Acharapakkam Malai Madha - Chennai: (Approx. 4hrs drive)

    Begin your drive to Chennai, stopping en route at Acharapakkam Malai Madha Church, a scenic hilltop shrine. On arrival in Chennai, check in and relax. In the evening, you may opt for shopping at popular local markets. Overnight stay at Chennai.

  • Day 13 : Chennai

    After breakfast, proceed for local sightseeing. Visit the Santhome Cathedral Basilica, built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. Then explore St. Thomas Mount, believed to be the martyrdom site of the saint. In the afternoon, visit Fort St. George and its museum showcasing colonial heritage. End the day at Velankanni Church in Besant Nagar and relax at the beachfront. Optional visit to local temples or indulge in shopping. Overnight stay at Chennai.

  • Day 14 : Chennai – Departure

    Today, you will be transferred to the airport as per your departure schedule. Tour Ends!

FAQ

South Indian Church tours explore iconic churches with rich histories, such as St. Philomena’s Church in Mysore, Velankanni Church, and Santa Cruz Basilica in Cochin. These tours often combine visits to historic sites, cultural experiences, and architectural marvels.

The best time to visit South India for a church tour is between October and March, as the weather is pleasant, and several religious festivals like Christmas are celebrated grandly.

The Christian Heritage of South India is deeply integrated into the region's culture, influencing festivals, architecture, music, and community life, showcasing a blend of European and indigenous elements in local customs and practices.

Some of the Famous Churches in Kerala are: <ul> <li> Santa Cruz Basilica in Fort Kochi </li> <li>St. George Syro- Malabar Catholic Forane Church in Edappally, Kochi</li> <li>Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours in Thrissur</li> <li>Arthunkal Basilica in Alleppey</li> <li>Champakulam Church in Alleppey</li> <li>Christ Church Munnar</li> <li>St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi</li> <li>Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom, Vallarpadam.</li> <li>Alphonsa’s Church, Bharananganam</li> <li>Edathua Church </li> <li>St. Thomas Church, Palayoor</li> </ul>

Tamil Nadu houses remarkable churches like St. Lourdes Church in Madurai, St. Joseph’s Church in Trichy, and Velankanni Basilica, blending history with spirituality.

South India offers enriching spiritual journeys, including visits to historic churches, temple towns, and tranquil monasteries, fostering a blend of cultural and religious exploration.

St. Philomena’s Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and the Velankanni Basilica are some of the famous churches in South India renowned for their Gothic-inspired and Indo-Portuguese architecture.

Located in Bharananganam, Kerala, St. Alphonsa’s Shrine honours the first Indian woman saint, offering a place for deep devotion and reflection.

The St. Thomas Church Tour South India is significant as it commemorates the apostle St. Thomas, who is believed to have brought Christianity to India. Key sites include St. Thomas Mount in Chennai, St. Thomas Basilica in Mylapore, St. Thomas Church in Palayoor, Kerala and Chinnamala Hill, believed to be places associated with the apostle St. Thomas.

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